The Texas Rangers will commemorate one of baseball's most iconic images on May 29 with replica blood-stained jerseys for fans. The photo shows Nolan Ryan with determination despite blood streaming from his mouth during a 1990 game against Kansas City. This image, captured by photographer Linda Kaye, became a symbol of Ryan's toughness and earned him status as a "Texas demi-god" in the state's culture.

Ryan joined the Rangers in 1989 after a contract dispute with the Astros, signing for two years at $3.4 million. The 42-year-old legend drew massive crowds to Arlington Stadium. During the September 8, 1990 game against the Royals, Ryan absorbed a Bo Jackson comebacker to the face, waved off trainers, and continued pitching for five more innings despite the injury.

The bloody jersey was actually washed during the game by equipment manager Dave Bales, but the image captured by Kaye endured. Ryan's manager foreshadowed the future love affair with the image. Today, the photo represents Ryan's legacy as a Texas icon, a symbol of toughness that transcended baseball and became part of the state's identity.